Uzbekistan presents collection of unique manuscripts and artifacts at the Second Islamic Arts Biennale in Jeddah

The Second Islamic Arts Biennale "And All That Is In Between" is currently taking place in Jeddah, where an exclusive collection of rare manuscripts and artifacts is being showcased, highlighting Uzbekistan’s key role in shaping Islamic culture, science, and art

According to the Uzbekistan Art and Culture Development Foundation, one of the significant exhibits at the exhibition is the medieval star catalog "Zij-i Ulugh Beg", published by Mirzo Ulugbek in 1437.

It is reported that many outstanding Central Asian scholars, including al-Kashi and al-Kushchi, participated in its creation. The catalog contains information about 1018 stars, which are distributed across 38 constellations. It also includes the length of the star year: 365 days, 6 hours, 10 minutes, and 8 seconds (with an error of 58 seconds) and the tilt of the Earth’s axis: 23.52 degrees (the most accurate measurement). The work is considered the most accurate and complete star catalog of its time, surpassing the works of its predecessors.

"The Second Islamic Arts Biennale will be open until May 25, 2025, at the Hajj Terminal of King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah", the publication states.

Photo from the website of the Uzbekistan Art and Culture Development Foundation